The Benefits of Pet Massage

Have you given your pet a massage recently? The hands-on therapy isn't just for humans but also provides a few benefits for our furry friends.

Massage Relieves Aches and Pains

Dogs and cats can't complain about tight muscles, but that doesn't mean that their muscles aren't sore after a vigorous session of catch-the-frisbee or a frenetic midnight dash through your house. When muscles are tight, they press on nerves, ligaments, and tendons, making pain worse. Although any pet can benefit from massage, the hands-on treatment may be particularly helpful for older dogs and cats who suffer from arthritis and other conditions that cause painful joints and muscles.

Health Benefits of Massage

The same health benefits massage offers you may also apply to your pets. The therapy improves blood and lymph circulation, increases range of motion, improves digestion, and may play a role in lowering blood pressure. It may also reduce swelling and stiffness in muscles and joints, improve flexibility, and help your pet sleep better. When you massage your dog or cat regularly, you'll also notice lumps, bumps, rashes or infections immediately, which will help you ensure that your pet receives prompt treatment for the health issues.

Is Your Pet Anxious? Massage May Help

Life is difficult for pets who live with anxiety. Loud noises or even slight changes in the normal routine can send your trembling dog or cat scurrying for a safe hiding place. Although medication may be helpful, anxiety drugs can cause unpleasant side effects. Massage offers a completely natural way to reduce your pet's stress and anxiety.

During a massage, your pet's body releases endorphins, natural body chemicals that decrease pain and help your furry friend feel calm and relaxed. Regular treatments can help reduce overall stress and may be particularly helpful when a frightening event makes your pet feel a little anxious.

Regular Massage Improves Your Bond with Your Pet

One-on-one time with your pet may be a rare occurrence when you have a busy life. When you devote 10 or 15 minutes to massages every day or a few times a week, you may deepen the relationship you enjoy with your dog or cat.

Massage for Pets: The Basics

These tips can help makes a massage a pleasant experience for you and your pet.

Choose a quiet room in the house with no distractions. Keep initial sessions short to give your pet time to adjust to this new experience.

Be flexible. Although lying down might be the best way for you to experience a massage, your pet might disagree. You can massage muscles just as well (or even better) if your pet prefers to stand or sit.

Long, gentle strokes will help your pet relax before you begin the massage. Once your pet seems calm, increase the pressure of the strokes slightly. Although you might enjoy Swedish massages, your dog or cat may find firm pressure uncomfortable.

Pay attention to your pet's signals. If he or she yelps or squirms, it's time to move on to another part of the body, use less pressure, or stop the massage. Keep in mind that, just like people, your pet may have certain preferences. Some animals like leg and paw massages, while others find the sensation unpleasant.

End the massage session with gentle petting to enhance relaxation.

Many pets tend to like massages just as much as people do. In fact, don't be surprised if your furry friend soon begs for a special session with you!

Massages, in addition to regular veterinary care, will help you keep your pet healthy and content. If you're concerned about a possible health issue, give us a call. We'll schedule a convenient appointment time for your pet.

Contact Us

We look forward to hearing from you

Featured Links

Click to find out more

Monday:

8:00 am-5:30 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:30 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:30 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:30 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-5:30 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

"Wow! Thanks to all the staff at Anderson Vet Clinic. I feel like you all truly love what you do! My kitty, Lola and I always have such a pleasant experience when we come in. Fortunately, it’s usually just for a check-up, but I would not leave Lola in anyone else’s hands but yours. Thank you for your caring commitment!"

Maya Smith / Los Angeles, CA

"I have benefited tremendously from the care my pet received from Dr. Anderson."

John Doe / San Diego, CA

"Fabio wasn’t eating the food I was giving him and I didn’t feel he was getting the nutrition he needed. Thanks to Dr. Anderson, he evaluated Fabio and his current diet to make some recommendations and now Fabio has gone from barely eating to finishing his meals and he looks healthier than ever. You clearly are an expert in your field...thanks so much!"

As with anything, pet vaccinations can be too much of a good thing. Similar to parents who are learning more about vaccinations for children, veterinarians and pet owners alike are beginning to question some of the standard wisdom when it comes to protecting pets. There are certain fatal diseases against ...

There is nothing cuter than a pet in a colorful sweater, but do our furry friends really need to wear clothing? Although clothing is not a necessity for every pet, some animals benefit from a little extra protection during cold or damp days. Others enjoy wearing festive clothing during holidays or other ...

Pet Proofing Your Home
Introducing your new pet to your current one is only a single part of the equation relating to taking a new pet home. You also have to make sure your new pet is comfortable in your home, which is a foreign environment to the animal. Like humans, animals can experience high levels ...

According to the American Animal Hospital Association, nearly two-thirds of pets suffer from dental problems because their owners do not provide dental care for them. Imagine what would happen to your own teeth if they were never brushed or examined by a dentist. The same thing can happen with your pet’s ...

Are you concerned that your child's allergies may mean that you will have to give up your pet? Although rehoming a pet may be necessary if allergies are severe, most children can live with pets if you are willing to make a few changes.
The Problem
About three in 10 people who have allergies are allergic ...

It's not easy to say goodbye to cherished pets, even those that have lived long, happy lives. Although you may hate the thought of life without your pet, euthanasia can be the kindest decision you can make when your friend is suffering.
Making the Decision
If your pet has been seriously injured in a ...

Have you ever heard that a wet nose is a sign that your pet is healthy? Although that's often the case, it's not always true. A moist nose can benefit your pet in several ways, but it doesn't necessarily guarantee good health.
How Does a Wet Nose Help My Pet?
Have you ever been woken at 5 a.m. by a cold, ...